GAMOPATIA MONOCLONAL DE SIGNIFICADO INDETERMINADO (MGUS) ENTRE APLICADORES DE AGROTÓXICOS NA MACRORREGIÃO OESTE DO PARANÁ

Abstract

Introduction: Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is an asymptomatic premalignant condition known to be a precursor of multiple myeloma (MM), whose etiology is not yet fully elucidated; however, evidence suggests occupational exposure to pesticides as a possible associated factor, especially among rural workers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MGUS and to evaluate its association with occupational exposure to pesticides in the Western macro-region of Paraná, based on an epidemiological study in men aged over 50 years. Methods: An analytical observational epidemiological study with a cross-sectional design was conducted in the Western macro-region of Paraná between September 2023 and October 2024. The sample included 486 men aged 50 years or older, equally distributed between the exposed group (n = 243) and the non-exposed group (n = 243), defined according to occupational exposure to pesticides. Participants completed a standardized sociodemographic and occupational questionnaire and underwent laboratory evaluation for MGUS detection. Statistical analyses included univariate models and multivariable logistic regression to identify associated factors. Results: The epidemiological study identified an overall MGUS prevalence of 4.74% (95% CI: 2.99–7.09), with a higher frequency in the non-exposed group (7.05%; 95% CI: 4.08 11.19) compared to the exposed group (2.53%; 95% CI: 0.93–5.43). In the multivariable analysis, older age, former smoking, and the presence of comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, were associated with an increased risk of MGUS. Conclusions: No significant association was identified between direct occupational exposure to pesticides and MGUS, reinforcing the multifactorial nature of this condition and the need for longitudinal studies to better understand its causes and, subsequently, to develop prevention strategies in populations considered at higher risk.